IU football: A tale of two halves

The Indiana Hoosiers had a season to remember in 2023. They won their first outright Big Ten championship since 1967 and advanced to the College Football Playoff for the second time in school history.
The Hoosiers' success was built on a strong running game and a stifling defense that ranked among the best in FBS.

The offensive line paved the way for a running game that led the Big Ten and ranked fifth in the FBS. Jaylin Lucas and Joshua Henderson both rushed for over 1,000 yards, and quarterback Jack Tuttle was a threat to run and pass.
The defense was just as impressive, allowing the fewest points per game in the Big Ten and ranking second in FBS.

The Hoosiers were particularly good at stopping the run, allowing just 91.3 yards per game on the ground.

Tuttle had a breakout season as a sophomore, throwing for 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns with just six interceptions. He also rushed for over 500 yards and 10 touchdowns, making him one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the country.

The Hoosiers' success was not without its challenges. They lost their season opener to Purdue, 28-19, and they also struggled against some of the top teams in the Big Ten, including a 41-20 loss to Michigan and a 38-33 loss to Ohio State.
However, the Hoosiers showed their resilience by winning their final seven games of the regular season and then defeating Penn State in the Big Ten Championship Game. They earned a berth in the College Football Playoff, where they lost to No. 1-ranked Georgia in the Orange Bowl.

Despite the disappointing end to the season, the Hoosiers can be proud of their accomplishments in 2023. They won their first Big Ten title in 56 years and they made their second appearance in the College Football Playoff. The future looks bright for the Hoosiers, and they will be a contender for the Big Ten championship again in 2024.